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Documents Required for Company Registration

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Documents Required for Company Registration
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Registering a company is an important legal foundation for any successful business. It allows  every business to operate legally.

Company registration is the legal foundation of every successful business, and the process starts with some steps including: submitting the correct documents, before starting any business in UAE you should know the documents required for company registration​. Incomplete documentation can cause delays in approvals and rejections, potentially increasing your business setup and/or registration costs if you are starting a new business or company, opening a branch of your business, forming a partnership, etc. Understanding the correct and exact documents required for company registration make the process faster incorporation, smoother compliance, and a strong legal start. This guide provides a complete checklist of documents for company registration.

This guide will help you in branch office opening if you also have questions like How to Open a Branch Office in Dubai?

Company Registration Required Documents

The documents play a major role for any business and company registration, incorporation, regulators require documents to verify ownership, company  structure detail, and confirm the compliance with legal requirements.

Authorities require valid identification to confirm the people behind the company.

1. Common documents include:

  • Passport copies
  • National ID card
  • Driver’s license (in some countries)

These must usually be clear, valid, and notarized if issued abroad.

2. Address Proof of Shareholders

Proof of residential address helps verify the legal identity of company owners.

Accepted documents:

  • Utility bill (electricity/water/internet)
  • Bank statement
  • Government-issued address certificate

Most authorities require these documents to be issued within the last 3 months.

3. Company Name Approval

Before registration, you must submit your business name for approval.

This ensures:

  • The name is unique
  • It doesn’t violate trademarks
  • It complies with naming regulations

A name approval certificate is often required in the registration application.

4. Memorandum of Association (MOA)

The MOA defines the company’s legal structure and scope.

It typically includes:

  • Company objectives
  • Shareholding details
  • Capital structure
  • Registered office details

This is one of the most important legal documents for incorporation.

5. Articles of Association (AOA)

The AOA outlines how the company will operate internally.

It covers:

  • Director responsibilities
  • Shareholder rights
  • Voting rules
  • Profit distribution

Some jurisdictions combine MOA and AOA into one incorporation document.

6. Registered Office Address Proof

Every company must provide an official business address.

Accepted proof may include:

  • Office lease agreement
  • Tenancy contract
  • Business center agreement
  • Utility bill for office premises

This address becomes the company’s official communication location.

7. Details of Business Activity

Authorities need a clear explanation of what the company will do.

This determines:

  • License type
  • Regulatory approvals
  • Tax classification

Choosing incorrect activities can delay approval or require reapplication.

8. Share Capital Information

You may need to declare:

  • Authorized capital
  • Paid-up capital
  • Share distribution among owners

Some countries require minimum capital proof, while others only need a declaration.

9. Director and Shareholder Consent Letters

Written consent attests to the following:

  • Become directors or shareholders
  • Take legal responsibility for the company

This prevents unauthorized registrations.

10. Additional Documents (If Applicable)

Depending on business type or country, authorities may also request:

  • Business plan
  • Parent company documents (for branches)
  • Board resolution
  • Power of attorney
  • Special regulatory approvals (finance, education, healthcare, etc.)

Why Documentation Matters

  • Fast company approval
  • Prevents legal disputes
  • Ensures regulatory compliance
  • Builds trust with banks and investors
  • Avoids penalties or rejection

Incorrect documentation is the #1 cause of company registration delays.

Read More: List of Business Activities in Dubai

 Tips to Avoid Registration Delays

  • When necessary, submit notarized copies.
  • Verify the documents and expiry dates
  • Make sure all of the names in the documents match perfectly
  • digital and hard copies
  • Verify the regulations specific to the area you serve.

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Joel Dsouza

About the Author

Joel Dsouza

Joel Dsouza is a Chartered Accountant and compliance specialist with extensive experience advising over 1,000 startups and SMEs on company registration, tax structuring, and regulatory compliance. As a member of ICAI and Co-Founder of Safe Ledger, Joel combines his deep financial expertise with a global perspective to help entrepreneurs navigate complex business environments. Focused on the UAE market, he is dedicated to empowering international and local business owners with clear, practical guidance on company setup, tax optimization, and ongoing compliance making him a trusted advisor for businesses aiming to succeed in the dynamic UAE economy.

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